Japanese glass makers push heat blocking glass
Japanese glass makers push heat blocking glass
Japanese glass makers are trying to increase the use of heat-blocking glass in buildings under construction. The goal is to reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings throughout the country.
Asahi Glass Company makes a heat shielded solar cell unit. The unit collects solar energy but allows people to see through it. The glass blocks heat generating light wavelengths and absorbs incoming light to reduce glare and the need for air conditioning.
Another heat blocking glass product made by the Nippon Sheet Glass Company is transparent until it absorbs heat. When it absorbs heat, it darkens to prevent additional heat from being transmitted through the glass. The glass operates in both directions, so it can block heat transfer from a building to the outside. This helps reduce heat loss in the evening and during the winter. The color-changing glass eliminates the need for curtains or mechanical shades, which makes it ideal for public spaces, unattended spaces and for windows that may be difficult to reach, but that could otherwise transmit significant heat.
The idea of heat-blocking glass is certainly not new, and it’s possible – using transparent films applied to the glass surface – to block the transfer of heat or the transmission of light. The heat blocking glass products simply build this capability directly into the glass. The integrated glass will last longer than applied films will, and work well in special circumstances.
One way to control the accumulation of heat through glass is by applying a coating like Glassprimer™ glass paint. Glassprimer™ glass paint is formulated especially for use on glass. It forms a permanent bond with the surface of the glass, and will not chip, fade or peel, even when exposed to direct sunlight.
Its exceptional UV resistance allows you to control heat transmission while still allowing light transmission. In addition, Glassprimer™ glass paint can be tinted to match any paint palette from any major paint manufacturer. If you’d like more information about Glassprimer™ glass paint, please visit the rest of our site. If you’d like to purchase Glassprimer™ glass paint, please visit our online store .
Photo Credit: Jon Rawlinson, via Flickr.com
